H1N1 Vaccine Still Encouraged
Available at Two River Allergy and Asthma Group
As spring is finally on the horizon, fewer people are coming down with the flu. In fact, most of the cases we’re seeing now are caused by H1N1, rather than the traditional seasonal flu viruses.
Compared to this past fall when H1N1 vaccine supplies were limited, there are now plenty of vaccine supplies throughout the country, and many people would still benefit from vaccination, according to a spokeswoman from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The declining second wave of H1N1 may eventually lead to a series of new, unknown strains of seasonal flu – and the existing H1N1 vaccines may be effective against these strains. So, H1N1 vaccination is still important to decrease the spread of the virus.
People with asthma who develop either seasonal or H1N1 flu illnesses are at increased risk for serious complications and are more likely to be hospitalized. The flu can also worsen chronic health problems like asthma. Everyone with asthma, ages 6 months and older, should be vaccinated with the H1N1 flu shot. Antiviral drugs (such as Tamiflu® or Relenza®) should be started early to treat flu in those with asthma or other conditions that put them at high risk for complications.
The CDC recommends vaccination as the first and most important step in protecting against the flu. With an adequate vaccine supply now available, the CDC is encouraging everyone to get vaccinated against 2009 H1N1, including people 65 years and older.
We are pleased to offer the H1N1 vaccine in our office. However, we have limited supplies and are offering vaccines on a first come, first served basis. Please contact us if you would like to receive the H1N1 vaccine. You can also check with your local health department for vaccine administration locations.
